Sacred Valley of the Incas

North of Cuzco along the Urubamba River lies the picturesque Sacred Valley, a fertile stretch of the high Andes that served the Incas as both an agricultural as well as a religious hub. A visit to this region will usually include stops in Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo in order to explore the villages, markets, ancient fortresses and ruins that the valley has to offer.

Those with a taste for extreme cultural indulgence can also consider taking part in an ayahuasca trip: a hallucinogenic ritual traditionally used both to purge the body as well as to attain spiritual enlightenment. We're not passing judgement, mind you; we're just giving facts.

Location:Between Ollantaytambo and Pisac along the Urubamba River, north of Cuzco

Note:Day tours can be booked at any number of locations in Cuzco's Plaza de Armas for between $15 - $25 (41 - 68 PES).